Well yesterday to be precise at 9pm from Station Pier Port Melbourne Vic.Australia
the new ship to Tasmania sailed .As the T.T.Line said in their publicity We've doubled the ships ,doubled the crossings,& doubled the convenience.,
And this means we now have 2 ships leaving Melbourne every night 7 days a week to Tasmania.The new ships are named Spirit 1 and Spirit 2.& painted red and white
Built in Sweden some 3 years ago they are far superior in the inside layout especially the cabins which are quite lovely.Cabins for 2 with single beds,cabins for families with 4 bunk beds,large suites with dble bed,lounge,tv bar etc these luxury cabins face either foward and all are on the top deck.About twive the price of other accomodation.Also you have an area with large lounge seats for sitting up during the o/night or lounging in and sleeping (If you are young & strong of body).
The timber panelling is a pale golden colour with timber tiles on the floor,bright carpet squares,comfortable lounge couches and chairs, 2 dining areas priced to suit your pocket and no smoking inside with areas out on deck protected from the wind for those who need a cigarette.
Comparing the 2 ships with the Spirit of Tasmania which is now to be sold is most noticeable ,the new ships being far superior in finish and design and overall a big improvement.
So each night as I walk with my dog Jessie along the beachfront I will watch them depart at 9pm,and if I am up and walking early enough I will see them dock at 7am.
This is not an ad but as I live within ashort walk of Station Pier I feel I am so lucky and like to share my Birthplace with others.
The Web Site on the brochure is spiritoftasmania.com.au
Tonight here in the Port the wind is gale force so the passengers sailing to Tasmania may be experiencing a little turbulence ,we shall wait to hear perhaps in the news of trip across Bass Straight...Regards Lois Daley 9.30.pm 2/9/2002